Spice level warning — Om Ali is not what I expected

I underestimated Om Ali. The earthy and warming description didn't prepare me for the reality. fenugreek seeds brings a heat or pungency that builds steadily rather than hitting upfront. By halfway through I was sweating but couldn't stop eating.

koshari is considered the national dish representing the multicultural influence on Egyptian cooking. The a Cairo street stall at lunchtime setting means locals eat this with ease while visitors like me reach for water. mint tea cut through it better than water would have. Don't order the mild version out of caution — the full version is the point. I'd go back. Three stars only because I wasn't warned.